Protests in Albania Escalate into Street Battles: Opposition Throws Molotov Cocktails at Government.

According to ТСН: The political tension in the EU candidate country has reached a critical limit. Mass protests organized by the opposition have led to street clashes in the capital, Tirana.

According to Politico, the situation escalated due to the use of incendiary mixtures against government buildings.

"Molotov Cocktails" and Arrests

Tension escalated on Monday evening when protesters began throwing "Molotov cocktails" at Prime Minister Edi Rama's office.

Local media reports that police have arrested four protest participants, while seven others are under investigation. Two law enforcement officers were injured, and one protester accidentally set himself on fire.

Reason for Anger: "Untouchable" Deputy Prime Minister

Protests were provoked by the case against Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku. The Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SPAK) accuses her of interfering in public contracts and manipulating tenders for large infrastructure projects, including the construction of Tirana's ring road and the Llugara tunnel.

However, Balluku is protected by parliamentary immunity. The ruling Socialist Party, led by Rama, is blocking a vote for her arrest, citing anticipation of a Constitutional Court decision in January.

Positions of the Parties

Opposition leader Sali Berisha of the Democratic Party of Albania characterized the government's actions as "systematic looting" of the people and stated that Rama "lacks legitimacy to remain in power."

Edi Rama, in his comments to journalists, did not condemn his opponents, calling them "desperate compatriots." He also criticized the anti-corruption prosecutor's office for its "mistakes" and the practice of arrests without a court decision.

This is not the first case of violence: last week, deputies in the Albanian parliament engaged in a brawl and ignited smoke grenades right in the session hall.

The situation in Albania will remain tense as protests over corruption accusations continue to flare up. The results of these protests could significantly impact the political landscape of the country and its European integration efforts. Observers are noting potential consequences for regional stability as a whole. The government's criticism from the opposition, as well as the actions of law enforcement, raise questions about the possibility of resolving the conflict peacefully.